My incredible journey to the arctic region has taken me from the scorching, dry heat of the Chihuahuan desert to the foggy, dynamic tundra of northern Alaska. After multiple flights and 2 days of travel, I have finally arrived in Utqiagvik, Alaska!
When first landing in the Wiley Post-Will Rogers Memorial Airport, you instantly observe how the vast tundra borders the coast of the Chukchi Sea. The airport itself is a great place to see how this great community interacts. As you walk into the small one room airport, the community immediately welcomes you.
Wiley Post-Will Rogers Memorial Airport
Upon stepping foot at the Barrow Arctic Research Center (BARC) I received my first introduction as to what my role would be as a part of a scientific research team. I began with receiving an introduction of the area, as well as safety training in the arctic. Safety is of the utmost importance and learning how to protect yourself from threats is essential.
Living in the arctic requires people to be extra vigilant from threats; such as the cold and wildlife. Polar bears are not seen among human settlements as often as you would think; yet they are dangerous to humans. Keeping vigilant while out in the field is important. Learning what to expect when there might be polar bears in the area is vital in the arctic region.
Polar Bear Behaviors
Polar Bear Warning System
After my settling in at the place that will be my home for the next 5 weeks, I immediately headed out to experience the arctic tundra in person. Words cannot describe the beauty that you see in this unknown world. You see never-ending vegetation to one end and the Arctic Ocean to the other. I look forward to learning everything that I can about the research, culture, and people that live in that amazing place!
Monica Nuñez enjoying her first day out in the Arctic Tundra!
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